The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has officially notified the embattled senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, of a petition by her constituent to recall her from the National Assembly.
In a letter addressed to Mrs Akpoti Uduaghan and signed by the commission secretary, Ruth Oriaran Anthony, said the notification is in line with provisions of clause 2 [a] of the commission’s regulations and guidelines for recall 2024.
“Pursuant to section 69 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, I write to notify you of the receipt of a petition from representatives of registered voters in your constituency seeking your recall from the Senate,” the letter partly reads.
“The notification is in line with the provisions of clause 2 [a] of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024.
“This letter is also copied to the presiding officer of the Senate and simultaneously published on the commission’s website. Thank you,” the letter read.
Similarly, the electoral umpire has confirmed the receipt of updated contact details from representatives of petitioners seeking to recall the senator.
According to a statement signed by the INEC’s national commissioner and chairman of information and voter education, Sam Olumekun, said a letter notifying the senator of the petition has been delivered to her.
“The next step is to scrutinise the list of signatories submitted by the petitioners to ascertain that the petition is signed by more than one half [over 50%] of the registered voters in the constituency. This will be done in the coming days,” Mr Olumekun said.
“The outcome, which will be made public, shall determine the next step to be taken by the Commission. We once again reassure Nigerians that the process will be open and transparent.”
